Post-Meeting Action Protocol

A framework for effective post-meeting follow-ups based on Ben Cook's approach to building relationships and being useful to others.

Core Philosophy

• Focus on being useful to others rather than just networking
• Identify specific, actionable ways to help immediately after meetings
• Connect people based on their unique interests and needs
• Maintain genuine curiosity about others' passions

Meeting Engagement Strategy

• Find the "one thing" to connect with someone on
  • Look beyond their public persona or main achievement
  • Focus on their current passions or side interests
  • Ask about projects that aren't their main claim to fame
• Listen for opportunities to be helpful
  • Note specific connections that could benefit them
  • Identify resources or information they might need
  • Look for ways to support their current interests

Post-Meeting Actions

• Immediately identify follow-up items
  • Send relevant links related to discussed topics
  • Make specific introductions to helpful contacts
  • Share examples or resources mentioned during conversation
• Focus on being useful rather than just maintaining contact
• Prioritize actionable help over general networking

Key Principles

• Never "turn off" the curiosity about others
• Pay attention to what successful people pay attention to
• Look for opportunities to add value in unexpected ways
• Focus on current interests rather than past achievements
• Build relationships through genuine usefulness rather than traditional networking

Impact

• Creates stronger, more meaningful connections
• Builds reputation as someone who adds value
• Develops genuine relationships rather than transactional ones
• Leads to natural, organic network growth